Hip Hop Newshttp://www.kiss987.fm
Music news, headlines, and gossip from ABC News Radioen-us(c) ABC News RadioCould J. Cole be prepping a new album?http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/c5d9c039d8e52d706c22233916bcfe34
Mon, 21 Jan 2019 14:45:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/c5d9c039d8e52d706c22233916bcfe34Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for BETJ. Cole has sent fans into a frenzy after purging his Instagram account and sharing a set of cryptic posts.

Monday afternoon, the Dreamville ring leader removed all his photos from the social platform, only to post, and then delete, a graphic which read, "I'm counting my bullets."

While Cole doesn't typically engage on the app, he then teased another set of images which read, "I'm loading clips. I'm writing down names. I'm making a list."

The set of images have led fans to speculate that new music from the rapper is imminent.

"J Cole deleted everything off his Instagram again AND U KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS," one Twitter user wrote.

Cole's social media moves follow his confirmation that he'd wrapped the recording sessions for his previously announced collaborative effort, Revenge of The Dreamers III.

"The Revengers sessions are done thank you to every artist and producer that came through. I love y’all, that s*** was beautiful," he tweeted.

Dreamville's President Ibrahim Hamad also recently treated fans to a snippet of new music from Cole by teasing an unreleased song via his Instagram story.

]]>Chloe x Halle have been tapped to perform "America The Beautiful" at the Super Bowlhttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/a799ffa7a895d7481038b155d66257f3
Mon, 21 Jan 2019 14:15:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/a799ffa7a895d7481038b155d66257f3Robin Harper/Parkwood/PictureGroupChloe x Halle have officially been recruited to perform at this year's Super Bowl, the NFL announced Sunday.

The Grammy-nominated sibling duo are set to sing "America The Beautiful," ahead of the big game's kick-off. The sisters join the previously announced Gladys Knight for the pre-game festivities at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 3. Knight is slated to perform the national anthem.

This news follows Chloe x Halle's memorable break-out year. Early last year, the duo released their debut album The Kids Are Alright, which has earned them Grammy nods for Best New Artist and Best Urban Contemporary Album at next month’s ceremony.

They also joined Beyoncé and Jay-Z on the road last summerfor their joint “On The Run II” tour.

]]>Robin Harper/Parkwood/PictureGroupChloe x Halle have officially been recruited to perform at this year's Super Bowl, the NFL announced Sunday.

The Grammy-nominated sibling duo are set to sing "America The Beautiful," ahead of the big game's kick-off. The sisters join the previously announced Gladys Knight for the pre-game festivities at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 3. Knight is slated to perform the national anthem.

This news follows Chloe x Halle's memorable break-out year. Early last year, the duo released their debut album The Kids Are Alright, which has earned them Grammy nods for Best New Artist and Best Urban Contemporary Album at next month’s ceremony.

They also joined Beyoncé and Jay-Z on the road last summerfor their joint “On The Run II” tour.

]]>PnB Rock arrested on drug and weapons charges in Pennsylvaniahttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/724eb78ba67f838278fb5e50db106c98
Mon, 21 Jan 2019 13:15:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/724eb78ba67f838278fb5e50db106c98Johnny Nunez/WireImagePnB Rock has been arrested for drug and weapons offenses, including "possession with intent to deliver," reports the Philadelphia Inquirer.

According to the report, the "Selfish" rapper was issued a search warrant by authorities in Bensalem Township, PA on Sunday night. Upon searching his luxury townhouse, investigators retrieved four pounds of marijuana, packaging material, $33,000 in cash and a stolen .40 Glock handgun, according to the police.

Police further claim that the materials which they seized -- plus surveillance footage -- suggest Rock was selling narcotics from his home. As a result, the Atlantic Records signee faces multiple charges, including possession with intent to deliver, possession of narcotics, receiving stolen property and criminal conspiracy.

Rock remains in custody at the county jail and is being held on $500,000 bail. His camp has yet to comment on the matter.

]]>Johnny Nunez/WireImagePnB Rock has been arrested for drug and weapons offenses, including "possession with intent to deliver," reports the Philadelphia Inquirer.

According to the report, the "Selfish" rapper was issued a search warrant by authorities in Bensalem Township, PA on Sunday night. Upon searching his luxury townhouse, investigators retrieved four pounds of marijuana, packaging material, $33,000 in cash and a stolen .40 Glock handgun, according to the police.

Police further claim that the materials which they seized -- plus surveillance footage -- suggest Rock was selling narcotics from his home. As a result, the Atlantic Records signee faces multiple charges, including possession with intent to deliver, possession of narcotics, receiving stolen property and criminal conspiracy.

Rock remains in custody at the county jail and is being held on $500,000 bail. His camp has yet to comment on the matter.

]]>Did Ciara and Russell Wilson respond to Future's comments about their marriage?http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/f7b50e988af5ec46cf9aef43e53502db
Mon, 21 Jan 2019 12:30:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/f7b50e988af5ec46cf9aef43e53502dbImage Group LA/ABCCiara and Russell Wilson are seemingly taking the high road following the negative comments that Ciara's ex, Future, made about their marriage.

As previously reported, the rapper took less-than-subtle jabs at the couple in a recent interview on Apple's Beats 1, saying that Wilson "is not being a man" by allowing Ciara to comment on her past dealings with Future. He also claimed that Ciara introduced their son Future Jr. to the NFL star before he had the chance to meet Wilson himself.

Now, Ciara has seemingly offered up a response of her own. Saturday, the "Level Up" singer posted a photo of herself on Twitter along with the caption: "Rise Above."

Meanwhile, Wilson tweeted a photo of Future Jr. sharing an adorable moment with his daughter Sienna. "All that matters," he captioned the post, along with the hashtag "#Love."

While the posts are in no way a direct response to Future's comments, it does give the impression that the Wilsons are unbothered by the rapper's negativity.

]]>Image Group LA/ABCCiara and Russell Wilson are seemingly taking the high road following the negative comments that Ciara's ex, Future, made about their marriage.

As previously reported, the rapper took less-than-subtle jabs at the couple in a recent interview on Apple's Beats 1, saying that Wilson "is not being a man" by allowing Ciara to comment on her past dealings with Future. He also claimed that Ciara introduced their son Future Jr. to the NFL star before he had the chance to meet Wilson himself.

Now, Ciara has seemingly offered up a response of her own. Saturday, the "Level Up" singer posted a photo of herself on Twitter along with the caption: "Rise Above."

Meanwhile, Wilson tweeted a photo of Future Jr. sharing an adorable moment with his daughter Sienna. "All that matters," he captioned the post, along with the hashtag "#Love."

While the posts are in no way a direct response to Future's comments, it does give the impression that the Wilsons are unbothered by the rapper's negativity.

]]>Erykah Badu attempts to clarify her comments after sending a "prayer" to R. Kellyhttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/453a254d155e04dacb2e241b151ee02d
Mon, 21 Jan 2019 11:30:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/453a254d155e04dacb2e241b151ee02dImage Courtesy of Marc BaptisteErykah Badu found herself in the hot seat over the weekend after she appeared to defend R. Kelly during a recent concert in Chicago.

Saturday night, while on stage at the Aragon Ballroom, the veteran singer took a brief pause during her set to address the controversy surrounding Kelly following the airing of Lifetime's explosive docuseries, Surviving R. Kelly.

In fan-captured footage, Badu is seen telling the crowd that she's "putting up a prayer right now for [R. Kelly]."

"I hope he sees the light of the day, if he's done all those things that we've seen on TV," she added.

Her message, however, fell flat with the audience, which reacted by both cheering and booing.

She continued by saying, “But y’all say ‘f*** it!’ See, that’s not love. That’s not unconditional.”

“But what if one of the people that was assaulted by R. Kelly grows up to be an offender, we gonna crucify them?" she added. "I mean how do we do this? Just something to think about.”

As Badu's statements began to circulate online, the Internet requested that she take a seat. In the wake of the backlash, the "On and On" singer offered clarification via social media.

“I want healing for you and anyone you have hurt as a result of you being hurt. Is that strange to you? That’s all I’ve ever said. Anything else has been fabricated or taken out of context.”

Despite her attempt to clarify her comments, Badu has previously backed R. Kelly in the past. In 2015, she introduced the singer at the Soul Train Awards, where she remarked he had “done more for black people than anyone."

]]>Image Courtesy of Marc BaptisteErykah Badu found herself in the hot seat over the weekend after she appeared to defend R. Kelly during a recent concert in Chicago.

Saturday night, while on stage at the Aragon Ballroom, the veteran singer took a brief pause during her set to address the controversy surrounding Kelly following the airing of Lifetime's explosive docuseries, Surviving R. Kelly.

In fan-captured footage, Badu is seen telling the crowd that she's "putting up a prayer right now for [R. Kelly]."

"I hope he sees the light of the day, if he's done all those things that we've seen on TV," she added.

Her message, however, fell flat with the audience, which reacted by both cheering and booing.

She continued by saying, “But y’all say ‘f*** it!’ See, that’s not love. That’s not unconditional.”

“But what if one of the people that was assaulted by R. Kelly grows up to be an offender, we gonna crucify them?" she added. "I mean how do we do this? Just something to think about.”

As Badu's statements began to circulate online, the Internet requested that she take a seat. In the wake of the backlash, the "On and On" singer offered clarification via social media.

“I want healing for you and anyone you have hurt as a result of you being hurt. Is that strange to you? That’s all I’ve ever said. Anything else has been fabricated or taken out of context.”

Despite her attempt to clarify her comments, Badu has previously backed R. Kelly in the past. In 2015, she introduced the singer at the Soul Train Awards, where she remarked he had “done more for black people than anyone."

Elle Varner has gifted fans with a fresh new single titled "Pour Me," featuring Wale.

Picking up where her breakout hit "Refill" left off, the nostalgic groove finds the singer reminiscing about a love lost. Varner's voice dominates the track with a healthy dollop of the rasp that has become her signature.

"You could be gettin' to know me/But I loved you as a homie/Now I'm cryin' and sayin', "Poor me!"/So pour me one more" she croons.

Speaking with RatedR&B last month, Varner revealed her new single was a "double entendre about being a 'poor' girl who's lost the love she wants. So, 'pour' her another."

“It has that ’90s feel. It has these hard drums and chords that are just so tickling. It’s me on a thousand," she added.

In addition, the soul singer will be joining labelmate Marsha Ambrosius on the NYLA Tour where she will be making appearances on select dates, including stops in Los Angeles, Houston, New Orleans Chicago, Cleveland and more.

Elle Varner has gifted fans with a fresh new single titled "Pour Me," featuring Wale.

Picking up where her breakout hit "Refill" left off, the nostalgic groove finds the singer reminiscing about a love lost. Varner's voice dominates the track with a healthy dollop of the rasp that has become her signature.

"You could be gettin' to know me/But I loved you as a homie/Now I'm cryin' and sayin', "Poor me!"/So pour me one more" she croons.

Speaking with RatedR&B last month, Varner revealed her new single was a "double entendre about being a 'poor' girl who's lost the love she wants. So, 'pour' her another."

“It has that ’90s feel. It has these hard drums and chords that are just so tickling. It’s me on a thousand," she added.

In addition, the soul singer will be joining labelmate Marsha Ambrosius on the NYLA Tour where she will be making appearances on select dates, including stops in Los Angeles, Houston, New Orleans Chicago, Cleveland and more.

]]>DAWN previews new breed album: "This record is for all of us"http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/abe0aed1ef561740f78b4d0579e673ea
Fri, 18 Jan 2019 17:15:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/abe0aed1ef561740f78b4d0579e673eaRobert Arnold DAWN has re-emerged with a forthcoming project, titled new breed, and her artistic freedom intact.

Thursday, the former Danity Kane lead singer shared a preview of her new album, her fourth solo project. It finds DAWN returning to her New Orleans roots and paying homage to her family's history in the Washitaw Nation Tribe.

The bulk of the LP deals with DAWN’s growth as an independent black woman who has navigated the best and worst parts of the music industry.

“I never saw myself as a victim but have survived assault and I thought hiding it made me strong," the songstress explained in a statement.

"But as I’ve watched all these amazing strong women speak on their experiences I found courage in speaking on my story. This record is for all of us. We are the new breed. We are strong, unapologetic and the future is female.”

Earlier this week, DAWN gifted fans with the album's lead single "Sauce." Produced by Cole M.G.N and Hudson Mohawke, the track brings sensuality to the forefront and encourages women to take pride in their sexual prowess.

"'Sauce' is about being bathed in your own beauty, being sexy for you," the vocalist said of the record. "The new breed of women is unapologetic about sex and the way they are choosing to express themselves."

]]>Robert Arnold DAWN has re-emerged with a forthcoming project, titled new breed, and her artistic freedom intact.

Thursday, the former Danity Kane lead singer shared a preview of her new album, her fourth solo project. It finds DAWN returning to her New Orleans roots and paying homage to her family's history in the Washitaw Nation Tribe.

The bulk of the LP deals with DAWN’s growth as an independent black woman who has navigated the best and worst parts of the music industry.

“I never saw myself as a victim but have survived assault and I thought hiding it made me strong," the songstress explained in a statement.

"But as I’ve watched all these amazing strong women speak on their experiences I found courage in speaking on my story. This record is for all of us. We are the new breed. We are strong, unapologetic and the future is female.”

Earlier this week, DAWN gifted fans with the album's lead single "Sauce." Produced by Cole M.G.N and Hudson Mohawke, the track brings sensuality to the forefront and encourages women to take pride in their sexual prowess.

"'Sauce' is about being bathed in your own beauty, being sexy for you," the vocalist said of the record. "The new breed of women is unapologetic about sex and the way they are choosing to express themselves."

]]>Princess Nokia is accusing Ariana Grande of plagiarizing her lyrics for new single "7 Rings"http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/fb4dbadb652efc44aad9dc3b5c56f5e2
Fri, 18 Jan 2019 15:45:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/fb4dbadb652efc44aad9dc3b5c56f5e2Scott Dudelson/Getty ImagesTwitter may have been thrilled to hear Ariana Grande's new single "7 Rings," but Princess Nokia wasn't -- mainly because she alleges the singer has ripped off few of her lyrics.

Friday, the A Girl Cried Red lyricist called out Grande on the matter via Instagram. In a brief clip, Nokia is seen listening to "7 Rings" and then her own record "Mine," a cut from her mixtape 1992.

The rapper then says to the camera, "Does that sound familiar to you? ’Cause that sound really familiar to me."

She continues, “Ain’t that the lil' song I made about brown women and their hair? Hmmm... sounds about white.”

In the time since Nokia's claims have gone viral, fans have also joined in on the conversation.

"[Ariana Grande]’s new album literally plagiarizes flows, words, bars from Nokia... yo what a shame, millions of dollars and a TEAM of people to make and write your music.... yet they STILL STEAL," one Twitter user wrote.

Grande's legion of supporters, however, are countering these claims.

"“7 Rigs' sold more in 15 minutes than 'Mine' sold in 2 years. Nice try tho. Definitely gunna get a nice bump on Nielsen next week," a fan wrote in the comment sections of Nokia's Instagram post.

Ariana is also being accused of hijacking Soulja Boy's flow for her latest effort.

]]>Scott Dudelson/Getty ImagesTwitter may have been thrilled to hear Ariana Grande's new single "7 Rings," but Princess Nokia wasn't -- mainly because she alleges the singer has ripped off few of her lyrics.

Friday, the A Girl Cried Red lyricist called out Grande on the matter via Instagram. In a brief clip, Nokia is seen listening to "7 Rings" and then her own record "Mine," a cut from her mixtape 1992.

The rapper then says to the camera, "Does that sound familiar to you? ’Cause that sound really familiar to me."

She continues, “Ain’t that the lil' song I made about brown women and their hair? Hmmm... sounds about white.”

In the time since Nokia's claims have gone viral, fans have also joined in on the conversation.

"[Ariana Grande]’s new album literally plagiarizes flows, words, bars from Nokia... yo what a shame, millions of dollars and a TEAM of people to make and write your music.... yet they STILL STEAL," one Twitter user wrote.

Grande's legion of supporters, however, are countering these claims.

"“7 Rigs' sold more in 15 minutes than 'Mine' sold in 2 years. Nice try tho. Definitely gunna get a nice bump on Nielsen next week," a fan wrote in the comment sections of Nokia's Instagram post.

Ariana is also being accused of hijacking Soulja Boy's flow for her latest effort.

]]>Wu-Tang Clan docuseries, Of Mics and Men, heading to Showtime in the springhttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/7258b8a220aaa539a0a815c13bc5246c
Fri, 18 Jan 2019 14:45:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/7258b8a220aaa539a0a815c13bc5246cABC/Paula LoboThis spring, The Wu-Tang Clan is coming at 'cha -- on the small screen, with their new docuseries Of Mics and Men

Under the direction of Sacha Jenkins, the four-part film will explore the impact of the group's debut album Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) -- which recently marked its 25th anniversary -- as well as their legendary career.

The series includes intimate and reflective interviews with each of the group's nine living members: RZA, GZA, Inspectah Deck, Raekwon, U-God, Ghostface, Method Man, Masta Killa and Cappadonna.

Also included: never-before-seen archival footage and performances, some of which will feature the group's late 10th member, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, who died in 2004.

The first two episodes of the series will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 28, and the full four episodes will air on Showtime later this spring.

“The Wu-Tang Clan is a seminal group that deserves a seminal documentary,” Vinnie Malhotra, Showtime executive, said in a statement.

He adds, “Sacha Jenkins delivers just that, not only reminding us of their powerful history through vintage footage, but also placing their impact in modern-day perspective that will be meaningful both to their die-hard fans and music fans in general."

In other Wu-related news, the hip-hop titans are heading to the UK for the Gods of Rap tour alongside Public Enemy and De La Soul. The trek will find the iconic rap groups performing in London and Manchester, England and Glasgow, Scotland. Tickets are available for purchase via Ticketmaster on January 25.

]]>ABC/Paula LoboThis spring, The Wu-Tang Clan is coming at 'cha -- on the small screen, with their new docuseries Of Mics and Men

Under the direction of Sacha Jenkins, the four-part film will explore the impact of the group's debut album Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) -- which recently marked its 25th anniversary -- as well as their legendary career.

The series includes intimate and reflective interviews with each of the group's nine living members: RZA, GZA, Inspectah Deck, Raekwon, U-God, Ghostface, Method Man, Masta Killa and Cappadonna.

Also included: never-before-seen archival footage and performances, some of which will feature the group's late 10th member, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, who died in 2004.

The first two episodes of the series will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 28, and the full four episodes will air on Showtime later this spring.

“The Wu-Tang Clan is a seminal group that deserves a seminal documentary,” Vinnie Malhotra, Showtime executive, said in a statement.

He adds, “Sacha Jenkins delivers just that, not only reminding us of their powerful history through vintage footage, but also placing their impact in modern-day perspective that will be meaningful both to their die-hard fans and music fans in general."

In other Wu-related news, the hip-hop titans are heading to the UK for the Gods of Rap tour alongside Public Enemy and De La Soul. The trek will find the iconic rap groups performing in London and Manchester, England and Glasgow, Scotland. Tickets are available for purchase via Ticketmaster on January 25.

Thursday night, the "All of Me" crooner appeared on Watch What Happens Livealongside wife Chrissy Teigen. During his candid interview, Legend revealed why he chose to take part in Lifetime's shocking expose Surviving R. Kelly, which detailed the decades-long accusations against the singer.

“I'm friends with the director, her name is Dream Hampton. She’s awesome,” he told host Andy Cohen. “We worked together on ending mass incarceration. I respect her work a lot, and she asked me to do it."

Legend added that he felt compelled to use his voice to speak out in support of the young black women allegedly victimized by Kelly.

"Another reason I wanted to do it [was] because I have good friends that were a part of the #MuteRKelly movement. They were literally marching on the streets and they work with rape victims in Chicago,” he said.

“They work with a lot of black girls in Chicago who are often overlooked...I knew that as a celebrity I could lend my voice to these young people who have been hurt and give them a voice."

As previously reported, Legend was been one of the biggest and earliest celebrity voices to denounce Kelly. While the likes of JAY Z, Mary J. Blige, Questlove, Lady Gaga and more declined to be a part of the documentary, Legend stood firmly against the 12 Play singer.

When his appearance in film was described as "courageous," Legend has pointed out that a "serial child rapist" like Kelly doesn't deserve to be protected.

Thursday night, the "All of Me" crooner appeared on Watch What Happens Livealongside wife Chrissy Teigen. During his candid interview, Legend revealed why he chose to take part in Lifetime's shocking expose Surviving R. Kelly, which detailed the decades-long accusations against the singer.

“I'm friends with the director, her name is Dream Hampton. She’s awesome,” he told host Andy Cohen. “We worked together on ending mass incarceration. I respect her work a lot, and she asked me to do it."

Legend added that he felt compelled to use his voice to speak out in support of the young black women allegedly victimized by Kelly.

"Another reason I wanted to do it [was] because I have good friends that were a part of the #MuteRKelly movement. They were literally marching on the streets and they work with rape victims in Chicago,” he said.

“They work with a lot of black girls in Chicago who are often overlooked...I knew that as a celebrity I could lend my voice to these young people who have been hurt and give them a voice."

As previously reported, Legend was been one of the biggest and earliest celebrity voices to denounce Kelly. While the likes of JAY Z, Mary J. Blige, Questlove, Lady Gaga and more declined to be a part of the documentary, Legend stood firmly against the 12 Play singer.

When his appearance in film was described as "courageous," Legend has pointed out that a "serial child rapist" like Kelly doesn't deserve to be protected.

]]>Future shades Russell Wilson's marriage to his ex, Ciara: "He do exactly what she tell him to do"http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/6df15924e24f2873707a27c3ad9d6ccf
Fri, 18 Jan 2019 13:00:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/6df15924e24f2873707a27c3ad9d6ccfABC/Randy HolmesAhead of the release of his new album The WIZRD, Future appeared on Apple Music's Beats 1 for a candid interview in which he detailed the concept behind the project. But things got tense when the subject of his former fiance Ciara, and her current husband Russell Wilson became a subject of interest.

“[Wilson] do exactly what she tell him to do," the Atlanta phenom said. "I feel like he not being a man in that position. He not tellin’ her, 'Chill out with that on the Internet. Don’t even talk to [Future]. I’m your husband! You better not even bring Future’s name up!’"

Future claimed that if he was still with Ciara, he would forbid her from ever mentioning an ex's name.

"If that was me, she couldn’t even bring his name up,” he added. “She know that. She couldn’t even bring her ex's names up. I don’t care what they gave you... Don’t bring their names up in an interview! No! Don’t give that s**t no energy. It’s about me, whatever, I’m taking care of everything, I'm a thousand percent."

Elsewhere in the interview, the "Crushed Up" lyricist claims that Ciara introduced their child, Future Jr., to Wilson before the rapper had an opportunity to meet the Seahawks quarterback himself.

He also alleges that Ciara agreed to arrange a meeting between Future and Wilson only after her and Wilson had wed. But, Future says the "damage" was already done.

It's no secret that Future and Ciara had a less-than-amicable split. The former couple has taken shots at each other via social media, in the press and most notably in the courtroom as they attempt to resolve the custody battle over their 4-year-old son.

]]>ABC/Randy HolmesAhead of the release of his new album The WIZRD, Future appeared on Apple Music's Beats 1 for a candid interview in which he detailed the concept behind the project. But things got tense when the subject of his former fiance Ciara, and her current husband Russell Wilson became a subject of interest.

“[Wilson] do exactly what she tell him to do," the Atlanta phenom said. "I feel like he not being a man in that position. He not tellin’ her, 'Chill out with that on the Internet. Don’t even talk to [Future]. I’m your husband! You better not even bring Future’s name up!’"

Future claimed that if he was still with Ciara, he would forbid her from ever mentioning an ex's name.

"If that was me, she couldn’t even bring his name up,” he added. “She know that. She couldn’t even bring her ex's names up. I don’t care what they gave you... Don’t bring their names up in an interview! No! Don’t give that s**t no energy. It’s about me, whatever, I’m taking care of everything, I'm a thousand percent."

Elsewhere in the interview, the "Crushed Up" lyricist claims that Ciara introduced their child, Future Jr., to Wilson before the rapper had an opportunity to meet the Seahawks quarterback himself.

He also alleges that Ciara agreed to arrange a meeting between Future and Wilson only after her and Wilson had wed. But, Future says the "damage" was already done.

It's no secret that Future and Ciara had a less-than-amicable split. The former couple has taken shots at each other via social media, in the press and most notably in the courtroom as they attempt to resolve the custody battle over their 4-year-old son.

]]>Report: R. Kelly dropped by Sony Musichttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/eee3f77ef40b3b18d5824a3ac537589d
Fri, 18 Jan 2019 12:30:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/eee3f77ef40b3b18d5824a3ac537589dMelissa Bender Following protests outside the company's offices in both New York City and Los Angeles, Sony Music has dropped R. Kelly, Variety says it has learned.

A source tells Variety that RCA, the Sony label to which Kelly is signed, doesn't plan to publicly announce the news, but the artist no longer appears on the RCA Records website.

Kelly's last album for the label was a 2016 Christmas release, but he's since released some singles and has tweeted that he had a new album coming.

While calls for the label to #MuteRKelly have been going on for several years, pressure on Sony increased last week following the airing of the Lifetime docuseries Surviving R. Kelly. The six-part series documented in detail the allegations of sexual abuse that have followed the singer for decades. He has denied all the allegations.

]]>Melissa Bender Following protests outside the company's offices in both New York City and Los Angeles, Sony Music has dropped R. Kelly, Variety says it has learned.

A source tells Variety that RCA, the Sony label to which Kelly is signed, doesn't plan to publicly announce the news, but the artist no longer appears on the RCA Records website.

Kelly's last album for the label was a 2016 Christmas release, but he's since released some singles and has tweeted that he had a new album coming.

While calls for the label to #MuteRKelly have been going on for several years, pressure on Sony increased last week following the airing of the Lifetime docuseries Surviving R. Kelly. The six-part series documented in detail the allegations of sexual abuse that have followed the singer for decades. He has denied all the allegations.

]]>Mariah's former assistant hits back with her own shocking lawsuithttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/5bba167263fc12e3f884c118761c5ea1
Fri, 18 Jan 2019 12:07:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/5bba167263fc12e3f884c118761c5ea1FilmMagic for dcp via ABC/Jeff Kravitz/AMA2018Earlier this week, Mariah Carey filed a lawsuit against her former assistant, claiming that after the superstar singer fired her, the former employee demanded $8 million dollars and threatened to release "embarrassing" videos of the singer. Now, the assistant has filed her own lawsuit, which includes some shocking claims against Mariah's former manager.

In the suit, which Variety has linked to, the assistant, Lianna Shakhnazaryan, is accusing Mariah and her former manager Stella Bulochnikov, of, among other things, wrongful termination, sexual harassment, racial discrimination and sexual battery. Specifically, Lianna claims that Stella slapped her on the butt and breasts, sat on her, and would hold her down and urinate on her.

Lianna also claims that Stella would call her an "Armenian whore," an "Armenian princess," and a "f***ing n*****." According to Lianna, Mariah was aware of Stella's behavior, and it sometimes happened in her presence. In addition, Lianna claims Mariah herself was physically and emotionally abusive.

Lianna, who worked for both Mariah and Stella, was on call 24/7 and was paid nearly $330,000 a year. She claims she was fired after she complained about Stella's behavior to Mariah.

Mariah recently settled a lawsuit Stella fired against her. In a statement to ABC News, her rep said of the suit she filed against Lianna, "Given that the evidence against this former assistant is vast and deplorable, we anticipate a victorious resolution."

]]>FilmMagic for dcp via ABC/Jeff Kravitz/AMA2018Earlier this week, Mariah Carey filed a lawsuit against her former assistant, claiming that after the superstar singer fired her, the former employee demanded $8 million dollars and threatened to release "embarrassing" videos of the singer. Now, the assistant has filed her own lawsuit, which includes some shocking claims against Mariah's former manager.

In the suit, which Variety has linked to, the assistant, Lianna Shakhnazaryan, is accusing Mariah and her former manager Stella Bulochnikov, of, among other things, wrongful termination, sexual harassment, racial discrimination and sexual battery. Specifically, Lianna claims that Stella slapped her on the butt and breasts, sat on her, and would hold her down and urinate on her.

Lianna also claims that Stella would call her an "Armenian whore," an "Armenian princess," and a "f***ing n*****." According to Lianna, Mariah was aware of Stella's behavior, and it sometimes happened in her presence. In addition, Lianna claims Mariah herself was physically and emotionally abusive.

Lianna, who worked for both Mariah and Stella, was on call 24/7 and was paid nearly $330,000 a year. She claims she was fired after she complained about Stella's behavior to Mariah.

Mariah recently settled a lawsuit Stella fired against her. In a statement to ABC News, her rep said of the suit she filed against Lianna, "Given that the evidence against this former assistant is vast and deplorable, we anticipate a victorious resolution."

We may not see Cardi B onstage during the Super Bowl halftime show, but we'll definitely see her on our TV screens during the big game.

Following a report by TMZ, a source confirms to E! News that Cardi has filmed a Pepsi ad that's going to air during the Super Bowl on February 3. Stars who've appeared in past Pepsi ads have included everyone from Michael Jackson and Madonna, to Britney Spears, Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, and Nicki Minaj.

During Super Bowl weekend, Cardi will be in Atlanta to headline the final night of the Bud Light Super Bowl Music Festival on February 2 with Bruno Mars.

As for the halftime show, Cardi reportedly had been in talks to appear with Maroon 5 to perform "Girls Like You," but when TMZ asked her about it last year, she said she'd do it "When [the NFL] hire[s] Colin Kaepernick back."

In other Cardi B news, her viral, hilarious rant about the government shutdown has been a topic of conversation among several Democratic senators, who like what she says, but are a little skittish when it comes to the non-stop profanity in the video.

Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii tweeted, "(Trying to decide whether or not to retweet the Cardi B video)," and Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut replied, "Omg, I had the same argument with myself 30 minutes ago!"

Schatz replied, "Ok you do it. And say retweets are not endorsements, especially the language, and I will retweet." To which Murphy replied, "DHYB," aka "Don't hold your breath."

We may not see Cardi B onstage during the Super Bowl halftime show, but we'll definitely see her on our TV screens during the big game.

Following a report by TMZ, a source confirms to E! News that Cardi has filmed a Pepsi ad that's going to air during the Super Bowl on February 3. Stars who've appeared in past Pepsi ads have included everyone from Michael Jackson and Madonna, to Britney Spears, Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, and Nicki Minaj.

During Super Bowl weekend, Cardi will be in Atlanta to headline the final night of the Bud Light Super Bowl Music Festival on February 2 with Bruno Mars.

As for the halftime show, Cardi reportedly had been in talks to appear with Maroon 5 to perform "Girls Like You," but when TMZ asked her about it last year, she said she'd do it "When [the NFL] hire[s] Colin Kaepernick back."

In other Cardi B news, her viral, hilarious rant about the government shutdown has been a topic of conversation among several Democratic senators, who like what she says, but are a little skittish when it comes to the non-stop profanity in the video.

Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii tweeted, "(Trying to decide whether or not to retweet the Cardi B video)," and Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut replied, "Omg, I had the same argument with myself 30 minutes ago!"

Schatz replied, "Ok you do it. And say retweets are not endorsements, especially the language, and I will retweet." To which Murphy replied, "DHYB," aka "Don't hold your breath."

]]>Gladys Knight wants to "Give the anthem back its voice" with Super Bowl performancehttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/3797faa2614237ae57b9d7c12e6619a2
Fri, 18 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/3797faa2614237ae57b9d7c12e6619a2Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for Super Bowl GospelGladysKnight says she wants to "give the anthem back its voice" when she performs "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the Super Bowl next month.

The comment came in response to Variety asking the legendary singer what her stance is on how the NFL has treated former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick. The league's alleged mistreatment of Kaepernick over his decision to kneel during the national anthem in protest of racial injustice has effectively cost him his NFL career. It's also prompted harsh criticism from his supporters of Super Bowl halftime performers Maroon 5, Travis Scott and Big Boi, and is said to have prompted other music stars, including Rihanna, Cardi B and JAY Z, to decline invitations to appear during the game.

“I understand that Mr. Kaepernick is protesting two things, and they are police violence and injustice,” Knight wrote in her statement to Variety. “It is unfortunate that our National Anthem has been dragged into this debate when the distinctive senses of the National Anthem and fighting for justice should each stand alone."

Knight goes on to say, "I am here today and on Sunday, Feb. 3 to give the Anthem back its voice, to stand for that historic choice of words, the way it unites us when we hear it and to free it from the same prejudices and struggles I have fought long and hard for all my life... I have been in the forefront of this battle longer than most of those voicing their opinions to win the right to sing our country’s Anthem on a stage as large as the Super Bowl LIII."

Knight's statement ends: “No matter who chooses to deflect with this narrative and continue to mix these two in the same message, it is not so and cannot be made so by anyone speaking it. I pray that this National Anthem will bring us all together in a way never before witnessed and we can move forward and untangle these truths which mean so much to all of us.”

Super Bowl 53 will take place at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz stadium February 3.

]]>Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for Super Bowl GospelGladysKnight says she wants to "give the anthem back its voice" when she performs "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the Super Bowl next month.

The comment came in response to Variety asking the legendary singer what her stance is on how the NFL has treated former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick. The league's alleged mistreatment of Kaepernick over his decision to kneel during the national anthem in protest of racial injustice has effectively cost him his NFL career. It's also prompted harsh criticism from his supporters of Super Bowl halftime performers Maroon 5, Travis Scott and Big Boi, and is said to have prompted other music stars, including Rihanna, Cardi B and JAY Z, to decline invitations to appear during the game.

“I understand that Mr. Kaepernick is protesting two things, and they are police violence and injustice,” Knight wrote in her statement to Variety. “It is unfortunate that our National Anthem has been dragged into this debate when the distinctive senses of the National Anthem and fighting for justice should each stand alone."

Knight goes on to say, "I am here today and on Sunday, Feb. 3 to give the Anthem back its voice, to stand for that historic choice of words, the way it unites us when we hear it and to free it from the same prejudices and struggles I have fought long and hard for all my life... I have been in the forefront of this battle longer than most of those voicing their opinions to win the right to sing our country’s Anthem on a stage as large as the Super Bowl LIII."

Knight's statement ends: “No matter who chooses to deflect with this narrative and continue to mix these two in the same message, it is not so and cannot be made so by anyone speaking it. I pray that this National Anthem will bring us all together in a way never before witnessed and we can move forward and untangle these truths which mean so much to all of us.”

Super Bowl 53 will take place at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz stadium February 3.

Thursday, the rap phenom shared his thoughts on the coveted event with TMZ as he was leaving LAX.

"What people have to understand, if you're really against the NFL, the halftime show is not what you should be concerned about," he told TMZ's cameraman. "[The NFL] don't get paid through the halftime show."

"If you're trying to make a stand against the NFL, you should probably not watch it on Sunday or you should not go to the games. The halftime show is irrelevant," he added. The rapper is speaking from experience: He performed with a bunch of other artists in both the 2001 and 2004 halftime shows.

The Country Grammar star added that if he had been asked to perform at this year's show, he would have most likely accepted the offer.

As previously reported, this year's performers, including Maroon 5, Travis Scott and Big Boi, were hit with criticism following the announcement of their participation. In addition to the public discourse on social media, a petition was also created asking for the performers to take a knee during their respective sets.

]]>ABC/Paula LoboDespite the controversy surrounding this year's Super Bowl halftime show, Nelly is one artist who doesn't necessarily see "the big deal."

Thursday, the rap phenom shared his thoughts on the coveted event with TMZ as he was leaving LAX.

"What people have to understand, if you're really against the NFL, the halftime show is not what you should be concerned about," he told TMZ's cameraman. "[The NFL] don't get paid through the halftime show."

"If you're trying to make a stand against the NFL, you should probably not watch it on Sunday or you should not go to the games. The halftime show is irrelevant," he added. The rapper is speaking from experience: He performed with a bunch of other artists in both the 2001 and 2004 halftime shows.

The Country Grammar star added that if he had been asked to perform at this year's show, he would have most likely accepted the offer.

As previously reported, this year's performers, including Maroon 5, Travis Scott and Big Boi, were hit with criticism following the announcement of their participation. In addition to the public discourse on social media, a petition was also created asking for the performers to take a knee during their respective sets.

Sources tell WWD that LVMH, the French conglomerate that owns brands such as Moet, Hennessy and Louis Vuitton, have been secretly negotiating a partnership with Rihanna. LVMH has reportedly also handpicked employees from within the company, including workers from the Celine and Louis Vuitton lines, to work with Rih on the project.

If the partnership is confirmed, the line would be the first brand to launch from scratch under the LVMH umbrella since Christian Lacroix in 1987.

While details about the line are scarce, Rih's luxury fashion house will reportedly include ready-to-wear clothing, accessories and leather goods.

The project will represent yet another foray into the world of fashion for the singer, who recently served as the creative director of Puma, and has struck gold with her Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty lines of makeup and lingerie, respectively.

In other news, the "Work" chart topper is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with her father, Ronald Fenty, for attempting to exploit her Fenty brand for his entertainment company.

Sources tell WWD that LVMH, the French conglomerate that owns brands such as Moet, Hennessy and Louis Vuitton, have been secretly negotiating a partnership with Rihanna. LVMH has reportedly also handpicked employees from within the company, including workers from the Celine and Louis Vuitton lines, to work with Rih on the project.

If the partnership is confirmed, the line would be the first brand to launch from scratch under the LVMH umbrella since Christian Lacroix in 1987.

While details about the line are scarce, Rih's luxury fashion house will reportedly include ready-to-wear clothing, accessories and leather goods.

The project will represent yet another foray into the world of fashion for the singer, who recently served as the creative director of Puma, and has struck gold with her Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty lines of makeup and lingerie, respectively.

In other news, the "Work" chart topper is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with her father, Ronald Fenty, for attempting to exploit her Fenty brand for his entertainment company.

]]>Tyga fires back at Soulja Boy with receipts: "Who had the biggest comeback?!http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/b267880d3c3707fd9ef0da9618dcbb00
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 14:30:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/b267880d3c3707fd9ef0da9618dcbb00Tim Mosenfelder/Getty ImagesTyga has responded to Soulja Boy's claims of having the biggest comeback of 2018 by offering up a few receipts of his own.

Wednesday night, the "Taste" rapper took to Twitter to share a comparison of his and Soulja's Spotify streaming numbers to date. The side-by-side images reveal that Tyga amassed 884 million streams on the platform, where as the "Crank That" pioneer received 98 million streams.

"Who had the biggest comeback?!," T-Raww captioned the post along, with a series of crying face emojis.

A few hours later, Soulja shared a retort of his own by reiterating a few recent points he's made.

"I RELEASED MY OWN VIDEO GAME CONSOLE IM THE FIRST RAPPER IN HISTORY TO DO SO!," he tweeted on Thursday morning.

Tyga, however, is capitalizing on the ongoing feud by dropping off his first release of 2019. Thursday, the Compton artist debuted a new video and new single titled "Floss In The Bank."

]]>Tim Mosenfelder/Getty ImagesTyga has responded to Soulja Boy's claims of having the biggest comeback of 2018 by offering up a few receipts of his own.

Wednesday night, the "Taste" rapper took to Twitter to share a comparison of his and Soulja's Spotify streaming numbers to date. The side-by-side images reveal that Tyga amassed 884 million streams on the platform, where as the "Crank That" pioneer received 98 million streams.

"Who had the biggest comeback?!," T-Raww captioned the post along, with a series of crying face emojis.

A few hours later, Soulja shared a retort of his own by reiterating a few recent points he's made.

"I RELEASED MY OWN VIDEO GAME CONSOLE IM THE FIRST RAPPER IN HISTORY TO DO SO!," he tweeted on Thursday morning.

Tyga, however, is capitalizing on the ongoing feud by dropping off his first release of 2019. Thursday, the Compton artist debuted a new video and new single titled "Floss In The Bank."

Courtesy PepsiCoBackstreet Boys are taking a Chance in a new Super Bowl ad for Doritos Flamin’ Hot Nachos. Chance the Rapper, that is.

The group and the hip-hop star are teaming up for the 30-second commercial, set to air on game day February 3.

Doritos released a teaser of the collab Thursday, featuring the guys of BSB posing for the camera in coordinating denim outfits. As they pose, Chance squeezes his way into the frame and awkwardly joins the group.

You then hear a reworked version of Backstreet’s hit “I Want It That Way” start to play, featuring what seems to be Chance’s voice.

As for what the rest of their collaboration entails, fans will find out closer to game day.

Courtesy PepsiCoBackstreet Boys are taking a Chance in a new Super Bowl ad for Doritos Flamin’ Hot Nachos. Chance the Rapper, that is.

The group and the hip-hop star are teaming up for the 30-second commercial, set to air on game day February 3.

Doritos released a teaser of the collab Thursday, featuring the guys of BSB posing for the camera in coordinating denim outfits. As they pose, Chance squeezes his way into the frame and awkwardly joins the group.

You then hear a reworked version of Backstreet’s hit “I Want It That Way” start to play, featuring what seems to be Chance’s voice.

As for what the rest of their collaboration entails, fans will find out closer to game day.

]]>Fans react to Omarion's announcement that he's not a part of the "You Got Served" sequelhttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/6beef631c54cd7722f8c944f9c364c29
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 14:00:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/6beef631c54cd7722f8c944f9c364c29Rich Polk/Getty Images for Streamy AwardsFans are reacting to Omarion's recent announcement that he's not officially a part of the forthcoming You Got Served sequel, which is being spearheaded by former B2K manager Chris Stokes.

It all started when Stokes and B2K's J-Boog released a teaser announcement about the next installment in the franchise. After the news made headlines, original B2K bandmate Omarion immediately distanced himself from the project.

"I love seeing & feeling the excitement in anticipation over The Millennium Tour & Dance Battle!! Timing is everything," he tweeted. "However, I want to make it clear that the You Got Served Sequel is not affiliated with myself, the tour or our Dance Battle Challenge. Keep that energy up!! Aye."

Although Omarion didn't necessarily say he wouldn't make an appearance in the film, fans assumed his tweet meant just that.

"If you’re not there then we won’t be there either. I love B2K but B2K isn’t S*** without one of the members so we good luv," tweeted one fan.

One fan asked Omarion to reconsider. "How you not gonna be in the 2nd one O?! I miss seeing your acting chops. One on One, Cutz, You Got Served. Come on O!"

As previously noted, there still isn't much information on the film, other than the project being a part of Stokes' Footage Films imprint.

You Got Served came out in January 2004 and the sequel, You Got Served: Beat The World was released in 2011. But since the 2011 film didn't feature any of the members of B2K, some fans don't consider it an official sequel.

]]>Rich Polk/Getty Images for Streamy AwardsFans are reacting to Omarion's recent announcement that he's not officially a part of the forthcoming You Got Served sequel, which is being spearheaded by former B2K manager Chris Stokes.

It all started when Stokes and B2K's J-Boog released a teaser announcement about the next installment in the franchise. After the news made headlines, original B2K bandmate Omarion immediately distanced himself from the project.

"I love seeing & feeling the excitement in anticipation over The Millennium Tour & Dance Battle!! Timing is everything," he tweeted. "However, I want to make it clear that the You Got Served Sequel is not affiliated with myself, the tour or our Dance Battle Challenge. Keep that energy up!! Aye."

Although Omarion didn't necessarily say he wouldn't make an appearance in the film, fans assumed his tweet meant just that.

"If you’re not there then we won’t be there either. I love B2K but B2K isn’t S*** without one of the members so we good luv," tweeted one fan.

One fan asked Omarion to reconsider. "How you not gonna be in the 2nd one O?! I miss seeing your acting chops. One on One, Cutz, You Got Served. Come on O!"

As previously noted, there still isn't much information on the film, other than the project being a part of Stokes' Footage Films imprint.

You Got Served came out in January 2004 and the sequel, You Got Served: Beat The World was released in 2011. But since the 2011 film didn't feature any of the members of B2K, some fans don't consider it an official sequel.

]]>Watch: Ella Mai puts her love on the line in new "Shot Clock" music videohttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/4bc4a9445b4c60fa1d24148fd95953bd
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 12:45:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/4bc4a9445b4c60fa1d24148fd95953bdMEENOComing off of a stellar 2018, Ella Mai continues the momentum by dropping off a new visual for "Shot Clock."

Under the direction of Colin Tilley, the dialed-down ballad finds Mai showcasing her personal style on and off the basketball court. The cinematic video serves as the U.K.-born starlet's first musical offering in the new year.

“Shot Clock” marks the third official single from Mai's self-titled album, which also includes the hits "Trip" and “Boo’d Up."

"Boo'd Up" has earned Ella Grammy nominations for Song of the Year and Best R&B Song at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards, which air February 10 on CBS.

]]>MEENOComing off of a stellar 2018, Ella Mai continues the momentum by dropping off a new visual for "Shot Clock."

Under the direction of Colin Tilley, the dialed-down ballad finds Mai showcasing her personal style on and off the basketball court. The cinematic video serves as the U.K.-born starlet's first musical offering in the new year.

“Shot Clock” marks the third official single from Mai's self-titled album, which also includes the hits "Trip" and “Boo’d Up."

"Boo'd Up" has earned Ella Grammy nominations for Song of the Year and Best R&B Song at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards, which air February 10 on CBS.

]]>Rise of an empire: Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj's latest albums have both gone platinumhttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/27653cb1b6be5d03a54777cd059247b7
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 12:00:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/27653cb1b6be5d03a54777cd059247b7Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABCCongratulations are in order for Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj, who've both added two more sales plaques to their already extensive collections.

Both Wayne's Tha Carter V and Minaj's Queen, released in August and September respectively, were certified platinum by the RIAA on January 11 for sales of one million units. The Young Money cohorts' oft-delayed, highly-anticipated projects dominated the charts in 2018 as well as much of the conversation on social media.

Weezy's 12th studio album premiered at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and sold a lofty 480,000 units in its first week. That was the third-biggest sales week for an album in 2018, and the whopping 433 million streams it accrued made for the second-biggest streaming week ever for an album.

As for the Head Barb, her Queen LP debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 with a total of 185,000 units sold. The project was certified gold by the RIAA less than a month after its release.

In addition, Nicki is a million units shy of becoming the first female rapper to sell 100 million units over the course of her career.

]]>Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABCCongratulations are in order for Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj, who've both added two more sales plaques to their already extensive collections.

Both Wayne's Tha Carter V and Minaj's Queen, released in August and September respectively, were certified platinum by the RIAA on January 11 for sales of one million units. The Young Money cohorts' oft-delayed, highly-anticipated projects dominated the charts in 2018 as well as much of the conversation on social media.

Weezy's 12th studio album premiered at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and sold a lofty 480,000 units in its first week. That was the third-biggest sales week for an album in 2018, and the whopping 433 million streams it accrued made for the second-biggest streaming week ever for an album.

As for the Head Barb, her Queen LP debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 with a total of 185,000 units sold. The project was certified gold by the RIAA less than a month after its release.

In addition, Nicki is a million units shy of becoming the first female rapper to sell 100 million units over the course of her career.

She'll sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" as part of the Super Bowl LIII pregame show at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, February 3.

"I am proud to use my voice to unite and represent our country in my hometown of Atlanta," the Empress of Soul said in a statement. "The NFL recently announced their new social justice platform Inspire Change, and I am honored to be a part of its inaugural year."

She'll sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" as part of the Super Bowl LIII pregame show at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, February 3.

"I am proud to use my voice to unite and represent our country in my hometown of Atlanta," the Empress of Soul said in a statement. "The NFL recently announced their new social justice platform Inspire Change, and I am honored to be a part of its inaugural year."

Courtesy of The Recording AcademyMusic's biggest night is about to get even bigger: The first round of performers for next month's Grammy Awards has been announced.

Nominees Camila Cabello, Cardi B, Dan Shay, Post Malone, Shawn Mendes, Janelle Monáe and country star Kacey Musgraves will all take the stage February 10, as Alicia Keys hosts the ceremony live from the STAPLES Center in L.A.

Camila is up for Best Pop Solo Performance and Best Pop Vocal Album for her debut album Camila. Cardi has five nominations, including Record of the Year for "I Like It."

Dan Shay are nominated for their hit "Tequila," while Post Malone has four nominations, including Album of the Year for beerbongs & bentleys.

Shawn is nominated for Song Of The Year and Best Pop Vocal Album for his self-titled third disc. Janelle is up for Best Music Video and Album Of The Year for Dirty Computer, while Kacey Musgraves' four nods include Album of the Year for Golden Hour.

The 61st Annual Grammy Awards air live on CBS February 10 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Courtesy of The Recording AcademyMusic's biggest night is about to get even bigger: The first round of performers for next month's Grammy Awards has been announced.

Nominees Camila Cabello, Cardi B, Dan Shay, Post Malone, Shawn Mendes, Janelle Monáe and country star Kacey Musgraves will all take the stage February 10, as Alicia Keys hosts the ceremony live from the STAPLES Center in L.A.

Camila is up for Best Pop Solo Performance and Best Pop Vocal Album for her debut album Camila. Cardi has five nominations, including Record of the Year for "I Like It."

Dan Shay are nominated for their hit "Tequila," while Post Malone has four nominations, including Album of the Year for beerbongs & bentleys.

Shawn is nominated for Song Of The Year and Best Pop Vocal Album for his self-titled third disc. Janelle is up for Best Music Video and Album Of The Year for Dirty Computer, while Kacey Musgraves' four nods include Album of the Year for Golden Hour.

The 61st Annual Grammy Awards air live on CBS February 10 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

]]>"B****, I'm scared": Cardi B weighs in on the government shutdownhttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/9496a0bf3a8a649b46f4fddb7cc6bd67
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 05:01:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/9496a0bf3a8a649b46f4fddb7cc6bd67Rich Fury/Getty Images for Fashion NovaCount Cardi B as one of the millions of Americans who thinks something needs to be done about the ongoing government shutdown. She's just not quite sure what that is.

"This s*** is crazy. Like, our country is in a hellhole right now, all for a f****** wall," Cardi declares in a video posted to her Instagram Wednesday night.

"We really need to take this serious," Cardi goes on. "I feel like we need to take some action. I don't know what type of action, b****, because this not what I do, but b****, I'm scared."

Cardi begins the video by noting how Trump has ordered certain government workers to return to work "without getting paid."

"I know a lot of y'all don't care because y'all don't work for the government or y'all probably don't have a job, but this s*** is really f****** serious, bro," Cardi says, adding later, "And I really feel bad for these people that gotta go to f****** work to not get mother****** paid."

Thousands of workers for the IRS, FAA and FDA were among those ordered back to work Tuesday.

The government shutdown, the longest in U.S. history, entered its 26th day Thursday.

]]>Rich Fury/Getty Images for Fashion NovaCount Cardi B as one of the millions of Americans who thinks something needs to be done about the ongoing government shutdown. She's just not quite sure what that is.

"This s*** is crazy. Like, our country is in a hellhole right now, all for a f****** wall," Cardi declares in a video posted to her Instagram Wednesday night.

"We really need to take this serious," Cardi goes on. "I feel like we need to take some action. I don't know what type of action, b****, because this not what I do, but b****, I'm scared."

Cardi begins the video by noting how Trump has ordered certain government workers to return to work "without getting paid."

"I know a lot of y'all don't care because y'all don't work for the government or y'all probably don't have a job, but this s*** is really f****** serious, bro," Cardi says, adding later, "And I really feel bad for these people that gotta go to f****** work to not get mother****** paid."

Thousands of workers for the IRS, FAA and FDA were among those ordered back to work Tuesday.

The government shutdown, the longest in U.S. history, entered its 26th day Thursday.

Ahead of the release of his forthcoming album The WIZRD, Future has been moving full speed ahead on an ambitious promo run.

During a recent sit-down with Genius, the hip-hop titan shared a more self-aware side of himself. Most notably, Future revealed that he stopped drinking lean, also known as purple drank, some time ago, but chose not to announce his sobriety to fans for one particular reason.

"I didn’t wanna tell nobody I stopped drinking lean," Future told For the Record host Rob Markman. "Because I felt like, then they gonna be like, ‘Oh, his music changed because he stopped drinking lean. Oh, I can hear it when he changes.'"

"It just be hard when your fans so used to a certain persona, you be afraid to change," Future added.

More recently, Future also dished during an interview with The Faderon how he feels about being compared to Beyoncé. As the 35-year-old continues to dominate the charts, much of the public discourse has been centered around how his music empowers men in much of the same vein as Queen Bey.

"I feel like Beyoncé is one of, if not the greatest, one of the greatest. And, to be compared to that is great," Future told the publication. "But, also just I wanna be able to use my voice for a lot of good in men. And not just the bad. I wanna speak for the men that went through something, but also felt like they weren't going to become the person that they are and they listened to Future and became a better person."

Ahead of the release of his forthcoming album The WIZRD, Future has been moving full speed ahead on an ambitious promo run.

During a recent sit-down with Genius, the hip-hop titan shared a more self-aware side of himself. Most notably, Future revealed that he stopped drinking lean, also known as purple drank, some time ago, but chose not to announce his sobriety to fans for one particular reason.

"I didn’t wanna tell nobody I stopped drinking lean," Future told For the Record host Rob Markman. "Because I felt like, then they gonna be like, ‘Oh, his music changed because he stopped drinking lean. Oh, I can hear it when he changes.'"

"It just be hard when your fans so used to a certain persona, you be afraid to change," Future added.

More recently, Future also dished during an interview with The Faderon how he feels about being compared to Beyoncé. As the 35-year-old continues to dominate the charts, much of the public discourse has been centered around how his music empowers men in much of the same vein as Queen Bey.

"I feel like Beyoncé is one of, if not the greatest, one of the greatest. And, to be compared to that is great," Future told the publication. "But, also just I wanna be able to use my voice for a lot of good in men. And not just the bad. I wanna speak for the men that went through something, but also felt like they weren't going to become the person that they are and they listened to Future and became a better person."

Jeffrey Mayer/WireImageOn Tuesday, Rihanna sued her father Ronald Fenty, claiming he's been trying to make money off of her hard-earned success," and seeking a cease-and-desist order and damages. But this is apparently news to Mr. Fenty.

As previously reported, Rihanna accused her dad and his business partner of giving the public the “false impression” that their talent and entertainment booking business, Fenty Entertainment, is affiliated with Rihanna and is authorized to represent her.

The lawsuit cites several instances where Mr. Fenty tried to book Rihanna for concerts, without her knowledge or approval.

OK! magazine claims to have spoken with Ronald Fenty who, when informed that his daughter was suing him, responded, “She is? Suing me? Why would she sue me? It’s my name! She’s never going to sue me — I’ll have to fight it!”

Fenty also insisted that it isn't his daughter who's actually doing the suing.

He explained, "She doesn’t have the time to deal with all this stuff herself, so it is someone else that will be doing it. She’s working hard on her album at the moment. I don’t think she’d sue me.”

"This is all news to me," he continued. "They sent something to Fenty Entertainment, it was a letter from [Rihanna's label], I think, but my lawyer said it was O.K. They said they preferred me not to use the name, but they didn’t say I couldn’t.”

But the lawsuit clearly states, "Defendants are aware of the falsity of these statements and have been repeatedly told to stop. Notwithstanding these warnings, Defendants continuously and repeatedly made and make these misrepresentations.”

Fenty did admit, however, that his daughter "stopped following" him on Instagram.

Jeffrey Mayer/WireImageOn Tuesday, Rihanna sued her father Ronald Fenty, claiming he's been trying to make money off of her hard-earned success," and seeking a cease-and-desist order and damages. But this is apparently news to Mr. Fenty.

As previously reported, Rihanna accused her dad and his business partner of giving the public the “false impression” that their talent and entertainment booking business, Fenty Entertainment, is affiliated with Rihanna and is authorized to represent her.

The lawsuit cites several instances where Mr. Fenty tried to book Rihanna for concerts, without her knowledge or approval.

OK! magazine claims to have spoken with Ronald Fenty who, when informed that his daughter was suing him, responded, “She is? Suing me? Why would she sue me? It’s my name! She’s never going to sue me — I’ll have to fight it!”

Fenty also insisted that it isn't his daughter who's actually doing the suing.

He explained, "She doesn’t have the time to deal with all this stuff herself, so it is someone else that will be doing it. She’s working hard on her album at the moment. I don’t think she’d sue me.”

"This is all news to me," he continued. "They sent something to Fenty Entertainment, it was a letter from [Rihanna's label], I think, but my lawyer said it was O.K. They said they preferred me not to use the name, but they didn’t say I couldn’t.”

But the lawsuit clearly states, "Defendants are aware of the falsity of these statements and have been repeatedly told to stop. Notwithstanding these warnings, Defendants continuously and repeatedly made and make these misrepresentations.”

Fenty did admit, however, that his daughter "stopped following" him on Instagram.

]]>Mustard drops off Migos-assisted single "Pure Water"http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/9509eb42202f5680bf247a9b3adcf8af
Wed, 16 Jan 2019 15:45:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/9509eb42202f5680bf247a9b3adcf8af10 Summers/Interscope RecordsMustard has officially debuted his Migos-assisted record "Pure Water," after first teasing the effort last week.

The hypnotic single premiered on Wednesday as Zane Lowe’s World Record on Apple Music’s Beats 1.

During his sit-down with Lowe, Mustard revealed that the beat was always intended for the highly sought-after out Atlanta trio. He admitted that it wasn't easy to get all three members in the studio, though.

“I was calling their phones everyday,” the 10 Summers label head recalled. “But at this point in my life it’s not about the ego. I don’t care how many times I have to call, because nobody’s going to look at you as the guy who called a million times if you deliver a hit.”

Last year proved to be monumental for Mustard: The first artist he signed to his label, Ella Mai, catapulted to the top of the charts with her breakout hit “Boo’d Up.” The single has earned the dynamic duo two Grammy nominations, for Song of the Year and Best R&B Song.

]]>10 Summers/Interscope RecordsMustard has officially debuted his Migos-assisted record "Pure Water," after first teasing the effort last week.

The hypnotic single premiered on Wednesday as Zane Lowe’s World Record on Apple Music’s Beats 1.

During his sit-down with Lowe, Mustard revealed that the beat was always intended for the highly sought-after out Atlanta trio. He admitted that it wasn't easy to get all three members in the studio, though.

“I was calling their phones everyday,” the 10 Summers label head recalled. “But at this point in my life it’s not about the ego. I don’t care how many times I have to call, because nobody’s going to look at you as the guy who called a million times if you deliver a hit.”

Last year proved to be monumental for Mustard: The first artist he signed to his label, Ella Mai, catapulted to the top of the charts with her breakout hit “Boo’d Up.” The single has earned the dynamic duo two Grammy nominations, for Song of the Year and Best R&B Song.

]]>Protesters gather outside of Sony Music's headquarters, demanding R. Kelly be dropped from labelhttp://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/464bcb2d0b4476c770db0ab2fb0730a7
Wed, 16 Jan 2019 15:05:00 -0600http://www.kiss987.fm/hip-hop-news/464bcb2d0b4476c770db0ab2fb0730a7Melissa BenderThe push for R. Kelly to be dropped from RCA have continued, with protesters swarming the New York City headquarters of RCA's parent company Sony Music.

Wednesday, a cluster of activist groups gathered outside of Sony's offices to deliver a petition which urges the music powerhouse to terminate its contract with Kelly. The petition has garnered over 200K signatures and declares Kelly's alleged serial abuse of young women without any serious repercussions "unacceptable."

Members of the #MuteRKelly movement, Black Women's Blueprint, Care2, Color of Change, Credo and more also presented Sony with a "Record Label of Shame" award.

Color of Change organizer Jade Magnus Ogunnaike [Oh-gah-KNOCK-key] told reporters during the rally, "[R. Kelly] did not act alone. He was supported by enablers. Not only individuals, not only managers, not only people who saw him abusing and violating young black girls for 25 years. He was aided by RCA."

She continued, "They knew he was grooming young black girls, as young as 13, 14, and 15, and keeping them in his studio. They knew, and they were okay with it."

In the wake of the renewed controversy surrounding Kelly, RCA has reportedly halted on any future releases of his music. However, the record label hasn't issued any official statement regarding Kelly's status on its roster.

]]>Melissa BenderThe push for R. Kelly to be dropped from RCA have continued, with protesters swarming the New York City headquarters of RCA's parent company Sony Music.

Wednesday, a cluster of activist groups gathered outside of Sony's offices to deliver a petition which urges the music powerhouse to terminate its contract with Kelly. The petition has garnered over 200K signatures and declares Kelly's alleged serial abuse of young women without any serious repercussions "unacceptable."

Members of the #MuteRKelly movement, Black Women's Blueprint, Care2, Color of Change, Credo and more also presented Sony with a "Record Label of Shame" award.

Color of Change organizer Jade Magnus Ogunnaike [Oh-gah-KNOCK-key] told reporters during the rally, "[R. Kelly] did not act alone. He was supported by enablers. Not only individuals, not only managers, not only people who saw him abusing and violating young black girls for 25 years. He was aided by RCA."

She continued, "They knew he was grooming young black girls, as young as 13, 14, and 15, and keeping them in his studio. They knew, and they were okay with it."

In the wake of the renewed controversy surrounding Kelly, RCA has reportedly halted on any future releases of his music. However, the record label hasn't issued any official statement regarding Kelly's status on its roster.